Andrea Barberena-Rojas, a 16-year-old from Bradenton, Florida, tragically lost her life on September 23, 2018. The incident occurred during a domestic dispute that escalated into a fatal shooting. Andrea was at home with her mother, Silvana Bennett, and her stepfather, James Bennett, when an argument broke out. According to reports, James Bennett shot and killed Silvana Bennett before turning the gun on Andrea.
Despite emergency responders' efforts, Andrea succumbed to her injuries shortly after the incident.
The Manatee County Sheriff's Office confirmed that James Bennett then committed suicide, making the case a murder-suicide. The investigation revealed that James Bennett's mother and a two-year-old child were also present in the home at the time of the shooting but were unharmed. The authorities responded to the scene after receiving a call about the shooting and found Silvana and James Bennett deceased. Andrea was still alive when paramedics arrived but later died from her injuries.
The tragic event left the community in shock, and Andrea's friends and family remembered her as a compassionate and lively individual. She was a student at Lakewood Ranch High School and was actively involved in the ROTC program. Her peers and teachers described her as a dedicated and caring person who always brought joy to those around her.
The investigation into the incident concluded that the shooting was a result of a domestic dispute, and no further arrests or suspects were involved. The case was closed following the confirmation of the murder-suicide, and no additional litigation or legal actions were reported. The community mourned the loss of Andrea and her mother, and efforts were made to support the surviving family members during this difficult time.
